Andros, Bimini, and the Berry Islands Hotels

Small Hope Bay Lodge

Exterior

At a Glance

    Pros

  • best dive operation on Andros
  • laid-back natural character and warm and welcoming service
  • free Wi-Fi and long-distance calls to the United States and Canada

    Cons

  • limited nightlife
  • you'll need insect repellent against the sand flies that bite at sunrise and sunset
  • no pool

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Small Hope Bay Lodge Review

This casual, palm-shaded oceanfront property —which celebrated 50 years in 2010—has a devoted following of divers, snorkelers, eco-adventurers, anglers, couples, and families. Rooms with Androsia batik prints and straw work are in rustic beachside cottages made of coral rock and Andros pine. Hammocks hang between trees in plentitude. The homey main lodge—with a dining room, bar-lounge, game room (containing the only guest TV and a Ping-Pong table), reading area, and outdoor bar—is the center of activity. Tasty meals include Bahamian luncheon buffets and dinner buffets with international flair. Guests quickly get to know and bond with one another and the staff, who share meals with them. Children ages two to seven eat dinner separately with a complimentary babysitter. For an additional charge you can select bonefishing and specialty diving packages, such as guided explorations of blue holes, diving instruction and certification, and "over-the-wall" dives. Rates include meals, beverages, and taxes.

    Hotel Amenities

  • 20 cottages.
  • Restaurant, bars, beach, water sports, children's programs, business center, some pets allowed.
  • Rooms have: no a/c (some), no TV.
  • Rate includes all-inclusive.
  • Credit cards accepted.
  • Closed Labor Day to mid-Aug.

Member Reviews

  • brockh, from San Diego, CA
    12/26/07

    We spent a week at SHBL in July 2007. The people, the attitude, the atmosphere, etc. were all we'd hoped for. We wanted a very laid back, relaxed, un-glitzy place where we could relax, snorkle and just enjoy the beach and water. Without a single exception the people were great. There wasn't much of a dividing line between staff and guests so everyone got to know one another quickly. If you can accept that the rooms are a bit rustic and only some have a/c, you should enjoy SHBL. Although we didn't have kids with us, those who did seemed to really enjoy it as well. One of the few places we've been where we'd have no hesitation about going back-probably to stay even longer.

    Ratings details: Room: 4 | Atmosphere: 5 | Service: 5 | Value: 5
  • madfortravel, from Colorado
    6/22/07

    Small Hope may be a bit rustic, but if you want a beautiful beach, great diving, snorkeling, and fishing, good service and staff and all-inclusive to boot (including help yourself bar) ... then this is the place for you.

    Ratings details: Room: 4 | Atmosphere: 5 | Service: 5 | Value: 5
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